Why book?
This Cape Cod resort feels like a New England movie set—it combines the best of a nostalgic—but high-end—camp-coded atmosphere (read: the smell of freshly mowed grass, bunnies hopping around everywhere) with luxurious touches like picturesque red-brick walkways and hydrangeas landscaped to a T. Renowned for the adjacent Cape Cod National Golf Club, as well as a slew of on-site activities like tennis, pickleball, boat rides and more, you’ll never be at a loss of things to do.
Set the scene
The hotel is just a short drive from the quaint town of Chatham, but has plenty available on property—there’s several food options, activities, and multiple areas primed for some good ole lounging. The stunning pool area juts out of the property along the picturesque Round Cove with an aesthetically pleasing array of chairs laid out, overlooking the iconic boats that float atop the waters of Cape Cod, and the adjacent bar and dining area blends in seamlessly.
As you’re walking around or people-watching, you’ll notice outfits reminiscent of everything Lilly Pulitzer for women, and golf-adjacent attire for men. But if you left your bright floral or white and preppy fits at home, don’t sweat it; ultimately, the hotel is extremely family-friendly, which works hand-in-hand with an unpretentious attitude about how you’re dressed.
The backstory
Over 400 years ago, the Wampanoag Native Americans discovered what is now known as Round Cove (which borders the property) in Chatham. They named the land Wequassett, which means “crescent on the water,” most likely for its crescent-like shape. The resort was built in 1925, and is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. They recently underwent a $12 million renovation, which included all 120 guest rooms.
The rooms
Rooms are spread out across different buildings on the property (think large houses with shared main entrances but multiple units within, with endearing botanical names like Sweet Pea, Petunia, and Orchid. Private cottages, villas, and even private homes are also available for larger group stays. We stayed in a very spacious Signature Suite with a large king bed, a sizable bathroom with a marble walk-in shower and separate tub, and a balcony with two lounge chairs and a picture-perfect view of the water. The blue and white hues bring a homey feel, combining modern and timeless elements—think carpeted floors and plush headboards done in modern patterns and fabrics.
Unlike some similar properties, there is no single “main” house with rooms—but the check-in area can be found in a central building attached to the gift shop and lobby. Keep this in mind when booking in case your guests are unable to walk far distances; you may want to call the front desk prior to booking to check which rooms and cottages are closest together and to where you’d like to be. Also, golf carts are readily available upon request from one of the staffers, so always feel free to give a call to request or flag someone down as you stroll around once you are there.
Food and drink
There are five dining concepts around the property, from the cozy bar-restaurant Thoreau’s, to their main dinner spot Twenty-Eight Atlantic—where breakfast is also served—with floor-to-ceililng windows and impeccable waterfront views. The menu at Twenty-Eight Atlantic features two- and four-course prix fixe menus with fresh seafood and American food, and breakfast offers a buffet of classics like eggs, fruit and yogurt. Breakfast is not included in all reservations, but is a convenient add-on if you’re trying to have a leisurely day on-property without driving into town. You’ll definitely want to make reservations for dinner if you’re here during the high season, especially to secure seats with the best views. If you’re here during the summer, don’t miss Supper on the Bay which happens every Thursday—it’s an outdoor dining experience featuring a rotating specially-curated menu of seasonal fish with thoughtfully paired cocktails and wines (weather permitting).
The neighborhood
The resort is situated in its own little corner of Cape Cod, but is within driving distance to Chatham (10 minutes), Provincetown (1 hour), and not terribly far from the ferry port that goes to Nantucket (45 minutes). The closest of the bunch is Chatham, a classic New England beach town full of boutiques, lowkey restaurants, fudge shops, and all the goodies you’d expect from a New England beach town. We visited Mac’s Chatham Fish & Lobster—not once, but twice—which had a dreamy picnic-style outdoor dining atmosphere, and then stopped by the famed Buffy’s Ice Cream and Chatham Candy Manor for some of the best fudge and sweet treats in the area (get the Penuche fudge). Bluefins Sushi & Sake Bar is another great option for dinner, and is conveniently located near the two aforementioned dessert spots. Chatham is also home to an iconic lighthouse, and you’ll likely spot some sweet seals popping out of the water as you stroll by.
The service
Staff was attentive, readily available when needed, and very easy to contact. We had a seamless check-in process, with a golf cart at-the-ready to help with our luggage. I’d recommend asking for help to your room (even if that’s not what you typically do), given the vastness of the resort and its multiple different buildings and parking areas. Upon checking in, the front desk provided a handy map of the property which I clung to for quick reference throughout the stay.
For families
The resort definitely caters to families, from the on-site splash park, which includes a ball pit, slides, and pirate-themed playground (it’s hidden, though, so not an eyesore) to the ice cream buggy that sends the little ones running in the afternoon. The multitude of cottages and connecting room options throughout the property lend a helping hand for family bookings too.
Eco effort
Sustainability is a core pillar at the resort, and they’ve recently undertaken the restoration of its waterfront by removing invasive plant species and re-planting native plants—this helps filter runoff, allows their waters to be clearer and cleaner, and supports biodiversity in the area.
Anything left to mention?
One of the best parts of being here is how fun it is to roam around the large property. Admittedly, I lost my way once or twice finding the way back to my room, but there were always several staff members around to point me in the right direction when needed.